Philanthropy Director

Description:

The University of Ottawa is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Philanthropy to play a crucial role in securing significant philanthropic investments to support the university’s long-term goals. The successful candidate will focus on developing and managing major and principal gifts across faculties and services, ranging from $500,000 to several million dollars. This leadership role involves designing strategies, cultivating relationships, and soliciting transformational gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Planning: Leading short- and long-term strategic revenue plans to secure substantial funding commitments aligned with university priorities.

• Account Management: Managing a portfolio of up to 100 prospective donors, focusing on gifts over $25,000 and principal gifts exceeding $1 million. This includes stewardship, solicitation, and sustained engagement.

• Relationship Management: Proactively establishing and nurturing long-term relationships with major donors, alumni, and influential community members. Collaborating with senior university leaders to leverage philanthropic opportunities.

• Operational Planning: Providing leadership in the design, execution, and assessment of efficient and impactful fundraising plans. Collaborating with senior colleagues on tailored strategies and donor proposals.

• Advisory Role: Working closely with executive teams to craft compelling funding proposals and ensure leadership is well-prepared for donor engagements.

• Networking: Acting as an ambassador for the university locally, nationally, and internationally. Engaging with high-profile alumni, volunteers, and community organizations to build philanthropic support.

• Issue Management: Identifying and resolving potential stakeholder concerns to maintain strong donor relationships. Ensuring proper administrative and reporting protocols are followed.

• Performance Evaluation and Reporting: In partnership with the information management team, evaluating corporate partnerships and suggesting improvements. Generating progress reports and optimization recommendations.

• HR Management: Recruiting, supervising, and evaluating team members, ensuring they are well-equipped and trained to perform effectively. Applying university HR policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications:

• Graduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in Business, Management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

• CFRE certification is an asset

• Deep knowledge of fundraising principles and sales best practices

• Experience developing and implementing strategic funding plans

• Familiarity with the non-profit sector, ideally within higher education

• Strong interpersonal, diplomatic, and judgment skills

• Exceptional listening and communication abilities in both French and English

• Proven initiative, self-discipline, and strategic/creative thinking in fundraising

• Excellent analytical skills for data-driven decision-making

• Competence in using fundraising software, particularly Raiser’s Edge (an asset)

• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends, and to travel regularly

• Valid driver’s license and passport required

Core Competencies at the University of Ottawa:

• Planning: Organizing tasks and priorities effectively to meet objectives

• Initiative: Demonstrating creativity, resourcefulness, and a proactive mindset

• Customer Service: Anticipating client needs and delivering effective solutions

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working constructively with others and being receptive to feedback

Equity and Inclusion Statement:
The University of Ottawa is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates from Indigenous, racialized, disabled, women, and LGBTIAQI2S+ communities are especially encouraged to apply. Accommodations are available during recruitment and selection processes.